Ace Bailey Cancels Philadelphia Workout, Leaving NBA Draft Teams Confused

PISCATAWAY, N.J. — Ace Bailey, a top prospect for the 2025 NBA Draft, has canceled his scheduled workout with the Philadelphia 76ers, raising eyebrows across the league. Bailey, who is currently ranked the No. 3 prospect on ESPN’s draft board, was set to fly to Philadelphia for a dinner and private workout this Friday.

Sources confirmed to ESPN that Bailey made the decision to cancel the visit on Wednesday. This marks a puzzling move for Bailey, especially considering he is the only U.S.-based draft hopeful who has not yet worked out for any NBA teams.

The Philadelphia 76ers hold the No. 3 overall pick in the upcoming draft on June 25, and there has been speculation about their potential targets. While Bailey’s absence is notable, the team has not ruled out selecting him. Daryl Morey, Philadelphia’s president of basketball operations, has a history of drafting players without private workouts, and they have scouted Bailey extensively throughout the season.

Bailey averaged 17.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.0 steals during his freshman season at Rutgers. He has reportedly communicated to interested teams that he views himself as a top-three talent but is aiming for a situation that offers a clear path to stardom and significant playing time.

Concerns have arisen within NBA circles surrounding Bailey’s draft strategy. Analysts note that by opting out of workouts, he risks dropping in the draft, especially if teams like the Charlotte Hornets, picking fourth, choose not to select him. If he slides past the top four, teams including the Washington Wizards, New Orleans Pelicans, and Brooklyn Nets, who are picking sixth, seventh, and eighth, are anticipated to actively consider moving up to draft him.

Bailey’s refusal to work out has alarmed some scouts, with one describing him as “goofy,” while confirming that such immaturity doesn’t imply he is a bad person. As the draft approaches, Bailey’s team remains confident in his abilities, but his strategy could ultimately impact his draft position.

As the 76ers prepare for next week’s draft, team officials will continue evaluating potential selections while keeping Bailey’s unique situation in mind.